Hub City community rallies to support RIFA through annual Turkey Day 5K

JACKSON, Tenn. — One local community got a head start on the Thanksgiving festivities, working up an appetite for the big feast.

“Well, the holiday season always brings fun and festive events right here to West Tennessee,” said .

The 21st annual Gold’s Gym and Fleet Feet Turkey Day 5K kicked off early Thanksgiving morning for a good cause.

“This has become a beloved Jackson tradition, and this is apparently the largest year yet,” said Erin Mount, development coordinator with RIFA.

This year’s Turkey Trot saw approximately 924 participants. Mount says seeing the community rally behind their nonprofit is incredible.

“Over the past 20 years, almost $190,000 have been raised to support RIFA’s ministries,” said Mount.

All of the proceeds from registration fees go directly towards RIFA in their battle against food insecurity. And many participants showed off their holiday spirit in festive costumes.

“It feels really ‘gobbly.’ We love doing the Turkey Trot, and it supports a great cause, RIFA,” said Brooke McMaster, 5K runner. “It’s a fun thing to do. We’re training for St. Jude’s half marathon.”

The race saw many participants from all walks of life, from parents pushing strollers to adorable puppies. Even the younger generation got out on their Thanksgiving break to support RIFA.

“This is my first year, so I’m really excited and nervous,” said Skylyn Robbins, 5K runner. “I wanted to challenge myself because it’s a lot of people.”

“It’s exciting, but overwhelming,” said Kinley Rowlett, 5K runner.

This Thanksgiving tradition was certainly one that you did not want to miss. Organizers hope to continue this tradition for many more years to come.

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